(From Sony lens literature) The Sony DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM (SAL1855) is a compact and lightweight 3x zoom lens that covers the frequently used range of focal lengths between wide-angle 18mm and standard 55mm (35mm-format camera equivalent: 27-82.5mm). It is designed exclusively for use with α DSLRs incorporating an APS-C type image sensor. Weighing only 210g (approx.), this light, compact lens is ideal for a wide range of snapshots, portraits, and general-purpose photography. And with a minimum focusing distance of 0.25m and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.34, it can be used for macro shooting, too. Smooth AF operation is assured by a newly developed Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM).
Compact and lightweight with 3x zoom
The DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM is a 3x (approx.) zoom lens designed specifically for use with α DSLRs that have an APS-C type sensor. It is exceptionally light and compact, with a weight of only 210g (approx.) and dimensions of 69.5mm (max. diameter) x 69mm (length) which makes it very easy to handle and carry.
Convenient 18-55mm zoom range
The DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM's zoom covers the frequently used 18mm to 55mm range (35mm-format equivalent: 27-82.5mm), and provides a field of view similar to that of the human eye. As a result, it is an excellent lens for everyday use, capable of handling everything from snapshots and group photos to landscapes and portraits.
Aspherical and ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements for superior imaging with minimal colour aberration
Two aspherical elements and one ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element are incorporated into the optics to assure high image quality with excellent contrast and resolution all the way out to the periphery of the lens. In addition, a circular aperture mechanism is used to assure smoother, more beautiful background defocusing.
Newly-developed Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) for smooth AF operation
The DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM's focusing lens group is driven by a new Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) in the lens itself, instead of a motor in the camera body. Responding instantly to AF drive control signals from the camera, the motor delivers power with smoothness and precision.
0.25m minimum focusing distance, 0.34 maximum magnification ratio
With a class-leading minimum focusing distance of just 0.25 meters and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.34, the DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM can also be used to take macro close-ups.
